Drug and alcohol use causes toxins to build up in the body, harming organs and affecting health. Under the right circumstances, however, it can heal and detoxify itself. Here, we offer a step-by-step guide on detoxing from substance abuse.
Detox: What Is It?
When the body cleans out harmful contaminants, detoxification is said to occur. To further the drug detox process, one must eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and above all else, stop using alcohol and drugs. With these steps, the blood is purified, and the body heals itself.
Depending on the severity of your dependence on substances, it may be best to consult a doctor before attempting a detox. With professional help, you’ll avoid symptoms such as:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Sweats
- Headaches
During withdrawal, these symptoms may be so severe that medical attention is required. For more manageable cases, follow these steps to detox safely.
Stop Using
The most crucial part of detox is to stop drinking or using drugs. To eliminate toxins, one must stop taking part in the habits that got them into addiction. The sooner you quit, the quicker your recovery will be.
Hydrate
Alcohol and substances dehydrate the body and can create side effects such as muscle spasms, headaches, and tiredness. Water, however, is a natural detoxifier that flushes the system, removing fats, toxins, and contaminants from the body. Aim for a water intake between 80 and 100 ounces a day. By drinking plenty of water, you’ll manage these symptoms effectively.
Eat Well
One can’t end up with toxins without ingesting them, and detox requires that unhealthy habits be replaced with healthy ones. A simple, yet effective way to detoxify the body is to eat a balanced diet.
Start by reducing saturated fats and sugars, which will slow healing. It’s also a good idea to reduce the intake of refined and processed foods, as they have almost no nutritional value and are hard for the body to metabolize.
Eliminate Toxins
Other than natural processes, exercise is the most effective way to rid the body of toxins. By raising your heart rate and breaking a sweat, you’ll eliminate toxins through the pores in your skin. Biking, running, yoga, and other exercises will aid in detoxing and produce endorphins that work on the brain’s reward and pleasure centers.
Decrease Stress
In today’s fast-paced world, stress is an unfortunate part of life. As you’re detoxing from substance abuse, be sure to take time to unwind and practice self-care. Cortisol and other stress hormones can affect health and inhibit the detoxification process.
Other Tips
Those in detox can take a few other steps to simplify the process and get on the road to recovery, such as:
- Staying away from cigarettes and caffeine. Not only are these substances harmful, but they also replace one addiction with another.
- Getting regular massages. This is another stress-reducing self-care practice that helps the body shed toxins.
- Getting more sleep. Most people are sleep-deprived, and those in recovery are no exception. Strive for eight to nine hours a night to decrease stress and improve health.
Anyone can take these steps toward a healthier life. By getting friends and loved ones involved, you’re more likely to stay on track.
Get the Help You Need Today
The decision to detox from alcohol and drugs shouldn’t be taken lightly. By following these tips, you can embark on a journey toward an alcohol- and drug-free life.
